Neves: Portugal aims at the 2026 World Cup, Glory of Jota

August 2 In an interview with Sport TV's "The Art of Football", Riyadh Crescent midfielder Ruben-Neves revealed that the Portuguese national team is aiming at the 2026 World Cup trophy, and they are eager to dedicate this honor to the unfortunately deceased Diogo-Jota.

Neves sighed when reviewing his World Cup journey: "I have experienced the World Cup once, and I must admit that this is the most challenging event I have ever participated in. For a long time, winning the World Cup for Portugal has been our deepest desire, and now, this motivation is becoming stronger and stronger." Neves once played for Portugal in the 2022 Qatar World Cup. In that event, the Portugal team unfortunately stopped in the quarterfinals and failed to realize their dream of winning the championship.

Speaking of Jota, Neves was full of respect and nostalgia: "There is no doubt that Jota showed on the court has always inspired each of us. I think each of us has inherited part of his spirit on the court." Jota was once a key figure in the Portuguese team's forward line. With his outstanding running position and sense of smell in front of the goal, he has repeatedly attacked the team. In June this year, Jota's unexpected death made the entire football community deeply saddened.

Neves made a statement on behalf of the Portuguese national team that they will do their best to win the World Cup in 2026. "We will do our best to let Jota taste the taste of the championship with us in another way." Currently, the Portuguese team performed well in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. They hope to continue this good momentum to the main competition and realize Jota's wish to win the championship.